The jurist and writer Bernhard Schlink has voiced his criticism regarding the manner in which the AfD interacts with parliamentary institutions. While he stated to the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung” podcast “Einspruch” that he sees “no perspective” for dismantling the political barrier surrounding the party, he emphasized that a critical issue is how the AfD is prevented from participating in parliamentary customs and rituals in the same way that other parties are.
Schlink specifically pointed to the refusal to allow AfD candidates to hold positions such as committee chairmanships and vice presidencies. According to him, this practice is not only institutionally complex but also sends a political message to many citizens, particularly in Eastern Germany, that they are not heard. He argued that this exclusion significantly heightens the risk to public confidence in democratic institutions.
Conversely, Schlink suggested that increasing the parliamentary responsibilities of AfD representatives could potentially lead to a different kind of dynamic. He contended that if the party’s deputies were more involved in the legislative process and shared responsibility for maintaining order and procedure, this could unfold with positive effects.
Turning to the broader question of strengthening trust in democracy, Schlink advocated for the establishment of citizens’ councils. Describing these as “a mild form of direct democracy,” he believes they could help channel political energy into more constructive directions than is sometimes currently the case.
The former constitutional law professor and regional constitutional judge also offered sharp criticism of the legal offense of insulting politicians, which he deemed “bizarre.” In his opinion, politicians simply need to “develop a thicker skin.”
